Word of Wisdom

WORD OF WISDOM
1 Corinthians 12:8

Def: The supernatural application of knowledge. It is knowing what to do with the natural or supernatural knowledge God has given you – proper judgment for action. The supernatural gift of the ‘word of wisdom’ is the sudden and miraculous giving of wisdom to meet a particular situation, or answer a particular question, or utilize a particular piece of knowledge, natural or supernatural.

Function of the Gift:

1. Application of spiritual truth
2. Ability for the believer or the church to do God’s will
3. Shows God’s way through and out of any situation

Four Kinds of Knowledge:

1. Natural human wisdom is naturally applied knowledge.

Since human knowledge is on the increase, so too is human wisdom. However, compared to the wisdom of God, it is but foolishness. – 1 Corinthians 3:19, 1 Corinthians 1:19-20

2. The fallen world’s supernatural wisdom.

This is the very thing used to tempt Adam and Eve into sin. The desire to be supernaturally wise apart from God. – Genesis 3:6

3. True intellectual wisdom.

The Book of Proverbs and King Solomon’s wisdom are good examples of this. We are told to pursue this type of wisdom. It comes as we respect the Lord and seek knowledge in the Word of God. – Job 28:28, Proverbs 9:10, James 1:5

4. The gift of the word of wisdom
See above definition.

Examples:

• Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream – Genesis 41 (25-32)

• God gave knowledge to Moses to build the Tabernacle, but gave wisdom (skill) to Bezaleel to work with gold, silver, precious stones, etc. to actually build it. – Exodus 31:1-5

• 2 Chronicles 20:12-23

The Promise of Christ to You:

• Matthew 10:16-19

• Colossians 2:2-3